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The Valley Press

Obituary Notices and Memorials

ECKROTH, Walter McKinney
ECKROTH, Walter McKinney It is said this is the 'Greatest Generation' ...Believe me when I say we have lost the greatest. Walt passed away Dec. 3, 2012, with his family by his side. He was born Dec. 11, 1926, in Williamsport, Pa. Having survived the depression, Walt found the Navy in 1943, and was assigned as a medic to the 6th Marine Division. When Walt returned home, he took his discharge; but soon found he missed the service and joined the USAF and was stationed at Muroc AFB. Walt was introduced to his wife AnnaPeg at an NCO dance and 5 months later, on January 19, 1952, they were married at St. John Episcopal Church in Los Angeles. They lived at Muroc AFB until 1955, and then moved to England where they spent the next 3 years. By the time their 1st son arrived, they were back in the States. While stationed at Bolling AFB in Washington D.C., they welcomed a 2nd son, Raymond. Walt retired from the Air Force and went to work for the USPS where he delivered mail at EAFB for the next 20 plus years before retiring again. Walt didnt like being retired and soon became a volunteer at High Desert Hospital Gift Shop Where he gave his time for over 20 plus years. Left to miss him are two sisters, his loving wife of 60 years, AnnaPeg, two sons, Steve (Maria), Ray (Maggy), granddaughter Anna Armstrong (Billy) and three great-grandchildren, Daisy Morie, Alyssa Leeann and Caleb Walter McKinney. Walt was a member of the St. Pauls Episcopal Church and a 48 year member of Henry H. Arnold Masonic Lodge in Rosamond. A Memorial Service is scheduled for 9 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012, at St. Pauls Episcopal Church, 502 W. Ave K. Lancaster.